TriMet budget sets flat fare, ends free rail zone

Portland, Ore.'s TriMet Board of Directors Wednseay approved a new budget that also revamped fare collection policy, in an effort to close a $12 million operations gap.

Effective Sept. 1, the downtown Free Fair Zone available on MAX light rail transit will end. In addition, fare zones will be dropped in favor of a single flat fare for travel throughout the region.

"During this budget process, the agency faced many tough choices but we believe this is a responsible and sound budget," said Bruce Warner, president of the TriMet board. "It reflects the public and the board's priority to preserve service and navigate the financial uncertainties ahead."

Among other changes in the budget, TriMet is reducing its fiscal contribution to the Portland Streetcar by $300,00 per year.